The Poisonous Bird: Pitohui
The Pitohui, native to islands like Indonesia, is a rare poisonous bird, one of the few in the world. Its body contains a potent neurotoxin called ‘batrachotoxin,’ theoretically powerful enough to kill 20 humans. Its appearance belies the significant danger it poses.
The Pitohui does not produce its own poison; instead, it accumulates toxins by feeding on poisonous insects. This poison is also said to have a protective effect against parasites, giving the bird a strong resistance to fleas and ticks. It’s considered dangerous to even touch, so caution is advised.
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